United Flight Grazes Parked Plane at LaGuardia, Escalating Friday Delays
United Flight Grazes Parked Plane at LaGuardia, Escalating Friday Delays
On Friday evening, two United Airlines aircraft made contact at LaGuardia Airport, leading to further delays in air travel. The incident involved United flight 580, which was returning from Chicago. While maneuvering to its gate, this flight grazed the tail of United flight 434, stationary on the taxiway.
Details of the Incident
Both planes involved were Boeing 737-800 models. Following the contact, the aircraft returned to their gates, and passengers deplaned without any reported injuries. United flight 580 carried 166 passengers and eight crew members, while flight 434 had 162 passengers and seven crew members, with the latter heading to Houston.
Impact on Air Traffic
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported significant staffing shortages among air traffic controllers. Nearly 80% of controllers were absent at New York-area facilities on that day. This shortage is linked to ongoing issues resulting from a government shutdown.
Due to the reduced staffing, air traffic was intentionally managed at slower rates to ensure safety. United Airlines is currently focused on expediting the travel arrangements for affected passengers.
Call for Action from United Airlines’ Leadership
Earlier that day, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby addressed the situation during a press conference. He urged bipartisan support to pass a clean Continuing Resolution (CR) to reopen the government and alleviate the staffing crisis impacting air travel.
- Incident: United flight 580 grazes United flight 434
- Aircraft type: Boeing 737-800
- Flights involved:
- United flight 580: From Chicago (166 passengers, 8 crew)
- United flight 434: Heading to Houston (162 passengers, 7 crew)
- Staffing issues: 80% of air traffic controllers absent
- CEO statement: Call for bipartisan support for government funding
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges facing the airline industry amid staffing shortages and operational disruptions at major airports like LaGuardia. United Airlines, along with federal officials, continues to navigate these issues in an effort to maintain safe and efficient air travel.
